Leras Rainey, Evan Denny (Ramone Day), Maleice White (MJ White), and Joey Goodwin Tragically Killed in Minneapolis Mass Shooting; 24-Year-Old Woman Critically Injured
James Ortley, 34, Arrested in Connection with Targeted Attack in Phillips Neighborhood; Authorities Investigate Possible Gang Ties
On the night of April 29, 2025, a devastating mass shooting unfolded in the Phillips neighborhood of Minneapolis, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and leaving one woman critically injured. The victims—Leras Rainey, Evan Denny (also known as Ramone Day), Maleice White (also known as MJ White), and Joey Goodwin—were found inside a vehicle at the scene. A fifth victim, a 24-year-old woman, was discovered nearby with life-threatening injuries. All victims were pronounced dead at the scene or shortly thereafter.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, Minneapolis police arrested 34-year-old James Ortley, who faces multiple counts of second-degree murder and a federal charge for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Authorities do not believe the shooting was random and are investigating potential gang affiliations and connections to other recent incidents in the area.(New York Post)
The Tragic Incident
The shooting occurred late Tuesday night near the intersection of Bloomington Avenue South and East 25th Street in the Phillips neighborhood, within Ward 9. Four victims—two men and one woman—were pronounced dead at the scene. They have since been identified as:
- Leras Rainey
- Evan Denny, also known as Ramone Day
- Maleice White, also known as MJ White
- Joey Goodwin(AP News)
One other individual—a 24-year-old woman—was transported to a local trauma center with life-threatening injuries. She sustained a gunshot wound to the face but was reported to have stable vital signs.
According to police, four of the victims were found inside a vehicle at the scene, while a fifth victim—an adult male—was discovered on the sidewalk nearby. Chief O’Hara confirmed that while officers were responding to the shooting, they heard additional gunfire in the area, approximately five blocks away. Although no further victims were found at that secondary location, physical evidence of gunfire was recovered, underscoring ongoing safety concerns in the vicinity.
“This was not a random act of violence,” Chief O’Hara said, noting that early investigative findings indicate the victims were likely targeted and that the incident may be gang-related. He also spoke about the emotional toll on officers and first responders. “Family members were wailing at the scene. That’s always hard—when there is one victim, it’s heartbreaking. When there are multiple victims, it’s devastating.”
The Arrest of James Ortley
The suspect, 34-year-old James Ortley, was taken into custody around 3:30 p.m. by the U.S. Marshals Service. He is currently facing multiple counts of second-degree murder in connection with the shooting, which occurred late Tuesday night near the intersection of Bloomington Avenue South and East 25th Street in the city’s Phillips neighborhood, within Ward 9. Ortley was also wanted on a federal warrant for being a felon in possession of a firearm, according to officials.
His arrest comes just months after he was briefly detained in February as a suspect in a violent robbery spree in Minneapolis. At that time, he was held for two days before being released without charges.
Tuesday’s mass shooting was the first of six separate shooting incidents reported in a violent 24-hour span across the city that left at least six additional individuals injured. Investigators are working to determine whether any of these incidents are connected.
Authorities do not believe Tuesday’s shooting was random and are continuing to investigate the possibility that other individuals were involved.
Community Impact and Response
The Phillips neighborhood, already grappling with concerns over gun violence and public safety, has been left reeling by this latest tragedy. Residents and community leaders are calling for increased efforts to address the root causes of violence and to support those affected by the incident.
In the wake of the shooting, memorials have been established at the scene, with flowers and candles placed in honor of the victims. Community organizations are organizing vigils and support services for the families and friends of those affected.
“We are heartbroken by this senseless act of violence,” said a local community leader. “Our thoughts are with the families of the victims, and we stand together as a community to support them during this difficult time.”
Investigation and Ongoing Efforts
The Minneapolis Police Department, along with federal authorities, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and any potential connections to other recent incidents in the area. Investigators are also examining possible gang affiliations and motives related to the attack.
Chief O’Hara has emphasized the department’s commitment to addressing gun violence and ensuring the safety of all residents. “We will continue to work tirelessly to bring justice to those affected by this tragedy and to prevent future acts of violence in our community,” he said.
Anyone with information related to the shooting or other recent incidents is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Conclusion
The loss of Leras Rainey, Evan Denny (Ramone Day), Maleice White (MJ White), and Joey Goodwin is a profound tragedy that has shaken the Minneapolis community. As investigations continue, the focus remains on understanding the motives behind the attack and ensuring that justice is served. In the meantime, the community stands united in support of the victims and their families, working together to heal and to prevent further violence.
Note: This article is based on information available as of May 2, 2025.
